Have you noticed that your skin changes in winter? Maybe your complexion suddenly feels dry and tight, or perhaps your usual moisturiser now causes irritation when you apply it – frustrating, right? Before you start a skincare shopping splurge to pick up new lotions and potions, spend a moment with us to delve into what’s really going on here.
In winter, cold weather, central heating and low humidity can cause damage to the outer layer of skin, known as the skin barrier, leaving our complexions feeling dehydrated, dull and sensitive. The right products can help restore skin health, but the ingredients matter – it’s important to choose nourishing, gentle formulas that are targeted at winter skin barrier repair.
Read on and we’ll show you how to repair winter skin barrier damage with barrier-friendly skincare. From how to protect skin in cold weather to the ultimate winter skincare routine, you’ll find it all in this article. Let’s get started!
What is the Winter Skin Barrier?
So first of all, what exactly is the skin barrier? It’s the outermost layer of your skin, also known as the stratum corneum. This protective structure is made up of skin cells bound together by lipids like ceramides, fatty acids and cholesterol.
The skin barrier’s main job is to lock in moisture and defend against external aggressors. It helps prevent transepidermal water loss while providing protection from UV rays, pollution and bacteria; it’s safe to say it’s essential for healthy, glowing skin.
But cold weather can be tough on the skin barrier, and when it’s compromised, you will start to notice that your skin feels drier and more reactive. That’s why it becomes increasingly important to strengthen a damaged skin barrier in winter.
Why Winter Damages the Skin Barrier
Winter brings extremes in temperature. Not only the icy climes outside, but the stuffy, artificial warmth of central heating – both of these environments contribute to dehydration and make the skin more vulnerable.
Cold air naturally has a lower humidity and holds less moisture, meaning the skin loses water more quickly through transepidermal water loss. Then, as you retreat inside, central heating dries the air even further, drawing more water from your skin. This reduces the skin barrier’s ability to retain moisture, leaving your complexion feeling dry, tight and sensitive.
In addition to the change in temperature, harsh wind is a physical irritant. As it whirls around you, it can cause microtears on your face, leading to redness, inflammation and chapped lips. Those who are prone to conditions like eczema or rosacea might experience more frequent flare-ups.
And it’s not just the natural elements that cause sensitive skin in winter. If you’re anything like us, a hot bath or long, steamy shower is our favourite way to relax before bed on chilly nights. While the warm water feels great, it can strip away your skin’s natural oils, making the lipid barrier more porous and less effective at retaining moisture.
With this in mind, it’s no wonder that so many of us suffer from dry, flaky skin in winter. That’s why now is the time to restore moisture balance with a nourishing winter skincare routine.
Signs of a Damaged Skin Barrier in Winter
If you’ve experienced any of the symptoms we’ve mentioned so far, there’s a good chance your skin barrier is feeling the effects of winter. Here’s a quick recap of how a damaged skin barrier in winter might look and feel:
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Persistent dryness
Your skin often feels dehydrated, even after using a good moisturiser.
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Increased sensitivity
Your skin might sting or feel irritated after you apply your usual products.
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Redness
You might see inflammation around your nose, cheeks and chin – all the areas that are exposed to the elements.
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Tightness and itching
Skin that feels tight or irritated is a sign that protective lipids are low.
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Breakouts
A weakened barrier can let bacteria in more easily, leading to breakouts or congestion.
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Flaky patches
Scaly areas indicate dehydration and decreased cell turnover.
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Flare-ups
Conditions like eczema, rosacea and psoriasis may be exacerbated if the skin barrier is weakened.
Did you nod your head in agreement to any of the points on that list? If so, it’s time to explore hydration for winter skin and invest in some much-needed cold weather skin care.
How to Repair Your Winter Skin Barrier
Repairing your damaged winter skin barrier is possible with the help of soothing skincare ingredients that will replenish your skin without irritation. Here are 7 simple tips that will help restore your glow:
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Simplify Your Ritual
Pare back your usual routine and focus on gentle, nourishing essentials. This minimalist approach will give your skin the chance to reset and repair.
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Switch to a Creamy, Non-Stripping Cleanser
Avoid foaming cleansers and opt for an oil-rich balm that hydrates as it cleanses. Our Melt The Day Away Cleansing Balm is packed with nourishing oils to melt away makeup and impurities, while leaving your skin calm and comfortable.
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Use Barrier-Repair Moisturiser
Look out for rich, replenishing formulas with hydrating ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. These will help rebuild your skin’s moisture reserves and protective layer.
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Apply Facial Oils to Seal in Hydration
Oils feel luxurious to use and are an effective way to lock in moisture while nourishing the skin. Choose a rich barrier-repair oil like Nourish & Glow Superfood Oil and layer it over a hydrating serum or facial mist to enhance the results.
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Avoid Hot Water and Over-Cleansing
Hot water strips the skin of its essential oils, leaving the barrier more vulnerable. Try to avoid cleansing in the hot shower, and instead wash your face at the sink using lukewarm water. Keep to gentle cleansing no more than once or twice a day.
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Introduce a Mist for a Hydration Boost
A hydrating facial mist is a simple addition to your skincare ritual that can make a big difference to how your skin looks and feels. Look for nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which is found in our Hydrate & Plump Skin Mist.
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Use SPF Even in Winter
Sunscreen isn’t just for summer. UV rays can make a damaged skin barrier worse, so make SPF the final step in your morning skincare ritual every day (yes, even if it’s cloudy) to protect your skin. Try our Invisible SPF Mist – SPF 30 for lightweight protection all year round.
Now you’re armed with everything you need to know about winter skin barrier repair. Get ready to replenish, restore and get glowing this season and beyond.
Explore Ella & Jo’s full skincare range and discover expert routines, advice, and product picks on the Ella & Jo blog – because your skin deserves extra love this season.
